Is there a way to stop my Windows 7 laptop from connecting to the Wi-Fi if the ethernet cord is plugged in?

Question

Essentially I want to have my wireless automatically connect to the router, but only if the ethernet cord is disconnected. If the ethernet cord is connected, I don't want it to automatically connect to Wi-Fi.

Thanks :)

Answer 1

You can change the order in which Windows searches for network services:

1. Go to Control Panel → Network and Sharing Center
2. On the left-hand side, click "Change adapter settings"
3. Go to Advanced → "Advanced Settings..." (if you cannot see the menu bar, hit Alt to make it visible)

4. The top list is the order in which connections are used. They can be rearranged using the green arrows.

   

Answer 2

Windows 7 does not provide this feature by default. You might have to use 3rd party software, like Wireless AutoSwitch.

Answer 3

Some laptops have this functionality built into the hardware, and it can be controlled in the BIOS/UEFI settings. For instance, on HP EliteBooks it's called "LAN/WLAN switching". So look around in your computer's BIOS/UEFI, or check the manual to see if it has this feature.